WETHERSFIELD RESIDENT PLEADS
GUILTY TO FEDERAL GUN CHARGE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 17, 2012

David B. Fein, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MAHMOUD MUSTAFA A. ABU-SHAQRA, also known as “Mike,” 28, a citizen of Jordan last residing in Wethersfield, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to one count of possession of a firearm with a removed or obliterated serial number.

According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 3, 2012, law enforcement officers traveled to a motel on the Berlin Turnpike in Wethersfield after receiving a report that an individual in possession of a firearm was selling drugs from his motel room. A search of the room revealed narcotics and assorted ammunition. A subsequent search of ABU-SHAQRA’s vehicle revealed a Sturm Ruger, Model SR40, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, with an obliterated serial number. ABU-SHAQRA was arrested at that time.

Judge Underhill has scheduled sentencing for December 10, 2012, at which time ABU-SHAQRA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years and a fine of up to $250,000.

ABU-SHAQRA has been detained since his arrest.

This matter has been investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Wethersfield, Hartford and Rocky Hill Police Departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brian P. Leaming.